How to Overcome Glastonbury Flu – Health Expert Reveals Why So Many Festivalgoers Get Sick
The tents are packed away and the wellies are drying out – but for many Glastonbury-goers, the festival hangover has turned into something more serious: full-blown Glastonbury flu.
Health expert Sarah Jefferies, from Emergency First Aid at Work Course, explains why thousands of Brits end up feeling ill post-festival – and what you can do to recover properly.
“It’s incredibly common to feel under the weather after a festival like Glastonbury,” says Jefferies. “You’ve got a perfect storm of factors – sleep deprivation, alcohol, poor nutrition, close contact with tens of thousands of people, and unpredictable weather – all of which weaken your immune system.”
What Is Glastonbury Flu?
Not an official medical term, “Glastonbury flu” refers to the wave of colds, coughs and minor respiratory infections that often hit revellers after major UK festivals.
“You’re essentially creating a breeding ground for bugs,” explains Jefferies. “Add in things like smoke inhalation from campfires, a bit too much shouting or singing, and a drop in temperature at night – it’s no surprise your body takes a hit.”
Top Symptoms:
- Sore throat
- Blocked nose or sinus pressure
- Chesty cough
- Extreme fatigue
- Headaches or body aches
How to Recover Fast
Rest properly
Forget powering through. Your body needs sleep to repair – so cancel plans, lie low and allow yourself proper downtime.
Hydrate and fuel
Jefferies recommends focusing on water, warm herbal teas, and easy-to-digest foods. “Soups, fruit and plain carbs like toast or rice can work wonders.”
Avoid alcohol – for at least two weeks
“The average festivalgoer is drinking from Wednesday through to Sunday – often heavily,” says Jefferies. “That’s a huge strain on your liver, immune system and mental health. Give your body two full weeks off alcohol to properly detox, rebalance your gut and restore your energy levels.”
Ignoring this advice, she warns, can lead to extended fatigue, lowered immunity, mood crashes and digestive issues – making the post-festival slump last even longer.
Steam it out
A hot shower, bowl of steaming water, or menthol rub can help loosen congestion and ease breathing.
Know when it’s more serious
“If your symptoms worsen, or you develop a high fever, seek medical advice,” says Jefferies. “Some people confuse flu with more serious respiratory infections like pneumonia, which may need treatment.”
Prevention for Next Time?
Jefferies says the best protection is preparation:
“Build your immunity before you go – that means rest, good food, vitamins, and staying hydrated. Bring a basic first aid kit, pack layers, and try to get some decent sleep where you can. Your future self will thank you.”
About Emergency First Aid At Work Course
Emergency First Aid at Work Course provides certified training across the UK for individuals and businesses looking to improve on-site safety and emergency care. From CPR and wound care to real-world workplace scenarios, we equip people with the skills to save lives.
